Panthers’ top target to replace superstar prop amid clause twist: Transfer Whispers

The Panthers will lose premiership-winning prop James Fisher-Harris at the end of the 2025 season and reportedly already have a target in mind to replace him.

The SMH is reporting Tigers star Stefano Utoikamanu is atop their list of candidates to fill Fisher-Harris’ shoes at the foot of the mountain.

Penrith powerbrokers have reportedly already enquired about Utoikamanu’s contract status, with a clause in his deal that could see him leave Leichhardt.

He’s free to leave if the Tigers fail to make the top eight in 2024, however he will have to stay at the club if he plays another two Origin games this year.

The Panthers have reportedly already held internal conversations about attempting to lure Utoikamanu to the club, having the same manager as assistant Ben Gardner.

The Bulldogs and Storm are also reportedly interested in the one-game NSW player’s services.

The news comes after Fisher-Harris’ confirmed departure shocked the rugby league world, signing a four-year deal with the Warriors.

The Panthers confirmed he approached the club with a desire to return home to New Zealand earlier this week.

The 28-year-old has previously won three premierships with the Panthers and earned the International Rugby League’s (IRL) Golden Boot award in 2023.